Apple Pie Moonshine Drink – Sweet, Cozy Fall Cocktail

Every time the weather starts to cool down and fall arrives, I love bringing out recipes that remind me of cozy nights, family gatherings, and warm desserts. One of my favorite drinks to make during this season is my apple pie moonshine drink. I have been making this for more than 5 years, and every time I serve it, my family and friends fall in love with it all over again.

This drink is inspired by the taste of old-fashioned apple pie. Imagine the flavors of cinnamon, baked apples, and vanilla coming together in a glass. That is exactly what this homemade apple pie moonshine recipe gives you. It is sweet, smooth, and feels like apple pie a la mode turned into a drink.

I make it as a single cocktail most of the time, but it can also be turned into a pitcher when I host a party. My kids, of course, get a warm apple cider version without the moonshine, while the adults enjoy the real thing. It has become one of those recipes that make fall evenings extra special in my home. Let’s explore it:

What is Apple Pie Moonshine Drink?

Apple pie moonshine drink is a cocktail that combines apple cider, apple pie moonshine, vodka, and simple syrup. It is served cold over ice and often garnished with fresh apple slices and a cinnamon stick. The drink tastes like dessert in a glass. Moonshine itself is a strong, homemade-style liquor that is often flavored.

When you add apple cider and vanilla vodka to it, you get a sweet drink but also have a little kick. Some people also call it an old-fashioned apple pie moonshine recipe because it reminds them of traditional, homemade flavors. This drink is popular in autumn, but honestly, I find myself making it year-round because it is that good.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is so easy and quick to make. It takes me only about 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish. I have been preparing this for 7 years now, and it has become one of my signature drinks whenever friends visit. My husband and friends say it tastes like a cozy apple pie baked in liquid form.

Another reason I love this recipe is its flexibility. You can make it as one drink for yourself or prepare a big pitcher for a group. It is also easy to adjust the sweetness. If you like your cocktail sweeter, you can add more simple syrup. If you prefer a stronger taste, you can reduce the syrup and add more moonshine.

Most importantly, this recipe always brings smiles. Whether it is a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or just a quiet evening at home, these easy apple pie moonshine drinks add warmth to the moment.

Ingredients of Apple Pie Moonshine Drink

• Two-thirds cup of apple cider
• 1.5 ounces vanilla vodka (or regular vodka)
• 1.5 ounces of apple pie moonshine
• 1 tablespoon simple syrup
• Apple slices and a cinnamon stick for garnish (optional)

For Simple Syrup

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar

These are all ingredients of apple pie moonshine drink, and you might already have some of them in your kitchen. The apple cider gives the drink its main flavor, the moonshine adds richness, and the vanilla vodka makes it taste smooth. The simple syrup balances everything with just the right amount of sweetness.

Equipment You Need

You don’t need many tools to prepare this homemade apple pie moonshine recipe. I usually keep it very simple in my kitchen.

• Small saucepan for making simple syrup
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Heatproof container or jar for storing syrup
• Highball glass or pint-size mason jar
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board for apple slices

That is all you really need. If you want to serve it in a fancy way, you can also use cocktail shakers and decorative glasses, but I personally love mason jars because they give it a rustic, homely look.

How to Make Apple Pie Moonshine Drink Step by Step

Make the Simple Syrup: Start by preparing the simple syrup. Put one cup of water and one cup of sugar in a small saucepan. It will take a few minutes for the sugar to dissolve entirely, so heat over medium and whisk constantly. After turning off the heat, allow the syrup to cool. It can be prepared in advance and kept for up to a week in the refrigerator.

Prepare the Glass: Pour ice into a Mason jar or highball glass. To make it a bit more eye-catching, toss some fresh apple slices into the glass.

Add the Alcohol: Fill the glass with one and a half ounces of vanilla vodka and one and a half ounces of apple pie moonshine. While moonshine provides that strong apple spice flavor, the vanilla vodka adds a creamy flavor similar to ice cream on apple pie.

Add the Syrup and Cider: Fill the glass with one tablespoon of your homemade simple syrup. Finally, top it all off with a third cup of apple cider. To blend all the flavors, give it a little shake.

Garnish and Serve: If you’d like, top your drink with more apple slices and a cinnamon stick as garnish. This adds more apple and cinnamon scent and enhances the drink’s presentation. You can now enjoy your apple pie moonshine cocktail.

What to Mix with Ole Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine

If you have Ole Smoky Apple Pie Moonshine at home, you can use it in this recipe instead of any other brand. It mixes very well with:

• Apple cider for a classic sweet taste
• Ginger ale, if you want a fizzy version
• Cream soda for a dessert-like flavor
• Cranberry juice for a tangy twist

I personally love it with apple cider because it makes the drink taste just like apple pie.

Useful Tips for Making Apple Pie Moonshine Drink

Over the years, I have learned some helpful tricks that make this drink taste even better.

• Always let the simple syrup cool before using it. Warm syrup can melt the ice too quickly.
• Use cold apple cider for the best refreshing taste.
• If you cannot find vanilla vodka, regular vodka works fine. You can even add a tiny drop of vanilla extract to get that flavor.
• Adjust the sweetness to your liking. Some people prefer less syrup, while others enjoy more.
• Always stir before serving so the flavors are well mixed.
• Garnish is optional, but apple slices and cinnamon sticks make the drink smell amazing.

Conclusion

In the fall, this classic apple pie moonshine drink recipe is one of my favorite drinks to make. After more than six years of preparation, it has become a subculture in my household. It is basic, yet it feels incredibly unique, and my circle of friends and family always want it. Moonshine, vodka, and apple cider combine to make a drink that tastes exactly like homemade apple pie.

It’s refreshing, sweet, and clean. This drink is typically a hit whether you make it as a single cocktail for yourself or make it for family and friends. Try this smooth apple pie moonshine cocktail the next time you’re in the mood for something enjoyable and laid-back. I can assure you that it will become one of your favorites as well.

FAQs

Can I make this drink without vodka?

Yes, you can leave out the vodka and just use apple pie moonshine with cider. The drink will still taste delicious, only slightly less creamy.

How long can I store simple syrup?

You can store simple syrup in the fridge for up to one week in a sealed container. Always make sure it has cooled completely before storing.

Can I make this drink warm instead of cold?

Yes, you can gently warm apple cider on the stove and then add moonshine and syrup. Do not boil after adding alcohol. This creates a cozy, warm apple drink.

What alcohol can replace moonshine in this recipe?

If you do not have moonshine, you can use spiced rum or whiskey. The flavor will be slightly different but still very tasty.